Da Cruz blames difficult pitch after Kaizer Chiefs suffer CAF Confederation Cup defeat

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz said the poor condition of the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium pitch hindered his side’s ability to play in their usual style during their 1-0 defeat in Zambia.

The result in Ndola, in the second preliminary round first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup, extended Kaizer Chiefs’ winless run to six matches in all competitions.

The South African club must now overturn the deficit in the second leg at home if they are to reach the group stage for a second successive season.

Da Cruz acknowledged that the playing surface was not suited to his team’s approach, although he was satisfied with the way his players adjusted as the match progressed.

“About the pitch, it was not the field for our advantage,” said Da Cruz.

“It was not a very good field for us to develop our game model. But we must adapt. We must play with the condition. The players adapted very well about the condition it’s not a problem.”

Despite the defeat, Da Cruz believed Kaizer Chiefs had been well prepared for their opponents and felt they controlled most of the contest.

He said the team had anticipated a direct style based on long balls, running and frequent deliveries into the penalty area.

“No, we were prepared,” added Da Cruz.

“We were not surprised during the game. We knew that they play long, they run a lot, they make a lot of crosses with a lot of energy.

“We conceded one goal on one corner, but for the rest of the game, we controlled the match.”